With the widespread application of natural ingredients in medicine, food, cosmetics and other fields, plant extracts are favored by more and more companies due to their environmentally friendly and low-toxic properties. However, when purchasing and using plant extracts, you still need to pay attention to a number of key factors to ensure product quality and compliance.
Source and purity
The quality of plant extracts depends first on the source of the raw materials. Different origins, climates and planting methods may result in significant differences in the content of active ingredients. Therefore, when purchasing, it is necessary to clarify the botanical name, origin and harvest season of the extract to avoid affecting product consistency due to unstable sources. In addition, purity is another core indicator. High-purity extracts are usually marked with the content of active ingredients (such as the percentage of flavonoids and polyphenols), while low-purity products may contain impurities or solvent residues, and safety must be confirmed through testing.
Regulations and certification
Regulatory requirements for plant extracts vary greatly in different countries. For example, the EU requires extracts to comply with the EU Food Additives Regulation (EC No. 1334/2008), while the US FDA classifies them as dietary supplements or GRAS (generally recognized as safe) substances. Exporters need to understand the regulations of the target market in advance and ensure that their products meet relevant certification standards, such as organic certification (USDA Organic, EU Organic), non-GMO certification (Non-GMO Project Verified), etc., to avoid trade barriers.
Storage and stability
Plant extracts contain active ingredients and are sensitive to light, heat, and humidity. They should be stored away from light, sealed, and placed in a cool and dry place. Some extracts also need to be refrigerated. Before use, check the integrity of the package. If agglomeration, discoloration, or odor is found, it may have deteriorated and should be discontinued. In addition, the shelf life of different extracts varies greatly. When purchasing, the expiration date must be clearly stated and the "first in, first out" principle must be followed.
Labeling and compliance statements
Foreign trade companies must comply with international labeling regulations when labeling the ingredients of plant extracts. For example, the EU requires labeling of plant sources and extraction solvents (such as ethanol and water), while the United States requires indicating whether allergens are contained. Misleading propaganda (such as exaggerating efficacy) may lead to legal risks, so it is recommended to consult a professional organization to review the label content.
Plant extracts have broad application prospects, but companies need to strictly control quality from source to terminal and ensure compliance and safety in order to establish long-term trust in the international market.
